Integrating nucleocytoplasmic transport and mechanotransduction at the nuclear envelope
February 1-6, 2026, Monte Verità, Ascona, Switzerland
Cells sense and respond to their environments through mechanical forces and biochemical cues. Extracellular forces reach the nucleus via adhesions and the cytoskeleton, where they activate mechanoresponsive transcription factors such as YAP. These factors enter the nucleus through nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) via nucleocytoplasmic transport (NCT), linking mechanotransduction to gene regulation. This “mechano-transport” pathway is central to cell migration, proliferation, and tissue organization, while its disruption is implicated in diseases ranging from cancer to neurodegeneration and muscular dystrophies.
This conference will explore fundamental connections between NCT and mechanotransduction, including:
1. How forces act on the nucleus and influence its responses
2. The impact of nuclear envelope tension on NPC structure and transport
3. How altered nuclear mechanics drive changes in NCT, chromatin organization, and gene expression
4. Methodological advances enabling simultaneous capture of mechanical and biochemical signals in living cells
Join us at Monte Verità for a stimulating cross-disciplinary meeting that brings together leaders and early-career scientists to explore how mechanics and transport converge to control nuclear function and disease.